Plymouth

CitySouth West, England

Plymouth is a CITY in South West, England.

Plymouth is a historic coastal city in Devon, England, renowned for its maritime heritage and stunning waterfront. Known as the departure point of the Mayflower in 1620, Plymouth offers rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty. Key attractions include the iconic Plymouth Hoe, a waterfront promenade with breathtaking views, the historic Barbican district with its cobbled streets and Tudor buildings, and the National Marine Aquarium. The city also boasts a thriving arts scene, excellent seafood, and easy access to the rugged landscapes of Dartmoor National Park. Plymouth's blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination.

Best time to visit Plymouth

The best time to visit Plymouth is from May to September when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are in full swing. July and August are peak tourist months with events like the British Firework Championships. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.

October

Now

Right now

Condition
Overcast
Temperature
9°
Feels like
6°
Humidity
88%
Wind
14 km/h
Precipitation
0 mm

Typical for October

Weather
Cool 9-15°C, rain possible

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Low

Autumn colours, quieter

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

PLH

Plymouth City Airport

Domestic

6 km away

EXT

Exeter International Airport

International

72 km away

BRS

Bristol Airport

International

190 km away

Getting around

"Plymouth has a reliable public transport system, including buses operated by Plymouth Citybus and Stagecoach. The city is walkable, especially the waterfront and city center. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available. Cycling is popular with dedicated bike lanes. Ferries operate to nearby coastal areas."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

25 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in city centre, cafes, hotels, and public libraries

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

44

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Generally safe; avoid isolated areas at night.

Night safety

7/10

Generally safe; avoid isolated areas at night.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Plymouth is generally safe, but standard precautions apply. Avoid poorly lit areas at night. Be cautious near coastal areas due to strong currents. Emergency services are responsive."

Entry and health

Health information

"Plymouth has excellent healthcare facilities, including Derriford Hospital. Travelers from the EU should carry a GHIC card. Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health concerns."

Culture

Local customs

"Plymouth residents are friendly and welcoming. Tipping in restaurants is customary (10-15%). Respect maritime traditions, especially during events like the Mayflower 400 commemorations. Pubs are central to social life, and a pint of local ale is a must-try."
English

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$12 | a cheap local meal costs ~$12

Hotels

$50-100 | budget hotels range $50-100/night

Local transport

$1.50 | local bus ride ~$1.50

Cost notes

Prices in USD approximate; actual costs vary by season.

Timezone

Europe/London +00:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

0.3 million

Area

79.83 km²

Government

Unitary Authority

ISO code

PLY

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Plymouth Leat

BeachHistoricFamily-FriendlyHikingMaritimeCultural